Make Yourself

Incubus's song 'Make Yourself' is a powerful anthem about self-empowerment and the importance of taking control of one's own destiny. The lyrics emphasize the necessity of self-creation and self-assembly, suggesting that if the individual does not take charge of their own life, external forces will shape them in ways that are undesirable. The opening lines, 'If I hadn't made me, I would've been made somehow,' set the tone for the entire song, highlighting the inevitability of being shaped by either oneself or by others.

The song uses vivid metaphors to illustrate the consequences of allowing others to dictate one's life. The line 'If you let them make you, they'll make you paper mache' suggests that external influences can make a person fragile and easily broken. This metaphor is extended with the imagery of crumbling and blowing away in the wind, symbolizing the loss of strength and identity when one is not self-made. The song also employs more explicit language to drive home its point, with lines like 'If you let them fuck you, there will be no fore-play,' indicating that surrendering control to others can lead to being taken advantage of without any regard for one's well-being.

The recurring refrain, 'You should make amends with you, if only for better health,' underscores the importance of self-acceptance and self-care. The song suggests that true living begins with the act of self-creation, urging listeners to 'make yourself.' This call to action is both a challenge and an encouragement, pushing individuals to take responsibility for their own lives and to shape their own identities. By doing so, they can avoid becoming 'paper mache' and instead become resilient and self-determined.

'Incubus' musical style, which blends rock with elements of funk and jazz, complements the song's message of individuality and self-expression. The band's ability to convey deep, introspective themes through their music has made them a staple in the alternative rock scene, and 'Make Yourself' is a prime example of their lyrical and musical prowess.